Unai Emery, the manager of Aston Villa, has expressed confidence in his team's ability to navigate a significant defensive crisis before their upcoming Champions League match against Celtic. The club currently faces a shortage of fit center-backs, with Ezri Konsa being the only available player in this position. Pau Torres is sidelined due to a broken foot, while Tyrone Mings, who left the field in distress during the recent 1-1 draw with West Ham, remains uncertain for Wednesday's game at Villa Park. The situation was further exacerbated by Diego Carlos's transfer to Fenerbahce last week. Despite these challenges, Emery remains optimistic and is preparing alternative strategies.

The absence of key defenders has forced Emery to consider unconventional tactics. During the West Ham match, left-back Lucas Digne filled in as a center-back for over 50 minutes after Mings' departure. This flexibility highlights the team's adaptability under pressure. Emery acknowledged that the departures and injuries have impacted squad depth but emphasized the importance of working within current constraints. He noted that even though they had intended to replace Carlos, timing did not allow for simultaneous transfers.

In addition to addressing immediate defensive concerns, Emery set his sights on broader objectives. The manager stressed the importance of rotating players who receive fewer playing minutes, aiming to strengthen the team overall. With matches scheduled closely together, including fixtures on Sunday, Tuesday, and Saturday, Emery sees an opportunity to push for a top-eight finish in the Premier League. This strategic focus aims to capitalize on the team's potential despite the current setbacks.

Emery's approach underscores resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. By fostering a positive mindset and exploring new tactical options, Aston Villa is poised to tackle its defensive challenges head-on. The upcoming match against Celtic will be a true test of the team's ability to overcome obstacles and maintain competitive performance on the European stage.